The government is upgrading air traffic control and weather monitoring systems at three airports serving major tourism destinations, in a move aimed at improving flight safety and access to national parks.
The Tanzania Civil Aviation Authority (TCAA) is strengthening air navigation services at Mikumi, Kogatende and Seronera airports, which are operated by the Tanzania National Parks Authority (TANAPA).
The developments were highlighted during an inspection by the National Civil Aviation Security Committee (NCASC) on September 24, led by TCAA Director General Dr Jabiri K. Bakari.
At all three airports, the committee inspected Automated Weather Stations (AWS), which provide weather information used by pilots and aviation authorities when making decisions on flight operations.
Reliable weather information is particularly important for airports serving remote tourism areas, where changing weather conditions can affect aircraft operations and passenger safety.
At Mikumi Airport, the committee inspected a new 1.8-kilometre runway, part of government investment in aviation infrastructure.
The runway is expected to improve aircraft operations at the airport, which provides air access to Mikumi National Park and surrounding areas.
At Seronera Airport in the Serengeti, the committee reviewed construction of a control tower that will strengthen the monitoring and coordination of aircraft movements once completed.
Dr Bakari said the investments were intended to improve both the safety and efficiency of air transport.
“The ongoing investment in air navigation services, modern weather equipment and airport infrastructure is an important step towards strengthening the safety and efficiency of air transport in the country,” he said.
He said improvements at airports serving protected areas would also make tourism destinations more accessible and strengthen the contribution of aviation to the wider economy.
The upgrades come as air transport remains an important link between Tanzania's major tourism destinations and domestic and international markets.
Improved navigation, weather monitoring and airport infrastructure could therefore support more reliable flights to national parks while improving the operating environment for airlines, tourism businesses and visitors.
For tourism-dependent areas, better air connections can also reduce travel time to remote destinations and improve access to attractions that are far from Tanzania's major cities and road networks.